Deuteron VT 920

Deuteron VT 920 is a granulated thickener primarily composed of Xanthan gum, a natural biopolymer derived from polysaccharides. It is soluble in both cold and hot water, forming pseudoplastic solutions, meaning its viscosity decreases with increased shear rate. These solutions exhibit tolerance to a wide range of temperatures and pH levels. However, at extreme pH levels (<2 and >12), depolymerization can occur, leading to a decrease in viscosity.

One of the notable features of Deuteron VT 920 is its granulated form, which facilitates easy incorporation into formulations without requiring high shear forces. It can be dissolved in solutions containing up to 40% organic solvents like alcohols or glycol ethers, though it remains insoluble in pure organic solvents. The product is stable in both anionic and non-ionic systems but may encounter compatibility issues in cationic systems.

Deuteron VT 920 functions as a thickener by creating strong structural viscosity in solutions. This viscosity decreases under increased shear force and quickly returns to its base viscosity once the force is removed. This property prevents settling of pigments and fillers and stabilizes the sagging behavior, making it particularly useful in coatings and printing inks.

Applications of Deuteron VT 920 include viscosity adjustment, reduction of floating/settling of waxes and pigments, improved stability/anti-sagging, and preparation of stable gels. It finds utility in water-based coatings and printing inks, pigment concentrates, emulsion paints and plasters, water-based adhesives, cleaning products, food additives, and pharmaceuticals.

Dosage recommendations vary based on the desired properties:

• Thickening/Gel formation: 0.1 - 1.0%
• Stabilization of solids against sedimentation: 0.1 - 0.3%
• Anti-sagging: 0.1 - 0.5%

The processing of Deuteron VT 920 involves adding it to the solution while stirring at a moderate speed until complete dissolution, which typically takes 10 - 15 minutes. Higher shear force accelerates the dispersion process. It's recommended to stabilize thickener solutions based on polysaccharides against fungal and bacterial growth with suitable biocides.